Best Rainbows Dreams And The Space In Between Podcasts (2025)

1
EP73: The Pink Triangle's Legacy 21:10

Play Pause

2M ago21:10

21:10

The pink triangle, a symbol of Nazi persecution of homosexuals, has been reclaimed and transformed into powerful monuments worldwide, from Amsterdam to San Francisco to Paris. • Amsterdam's Homomonument (1987) was the world's first and largest LGBTQ+ memorial, with a triangular design pointing to significant locations including Anne Frank's house •…

1
EP72: Triangle of Terror, Symbol of Strength: The Pink Triangle 31:33

3M ago31:33

31:33

The pink triangle evolved from a symbol of Nazi persecution to an emblem of queer liberation and activism. This episode traces its journey from concentration camps through the AIDS crisis to modern Pride celebrations, revealing how it was reclaimed by the queer community as a powerful symbol of resistance. • Nazi Germany used color-coded triangle b…

1
EP71: Queerness Before Gravity, Sir Francis Bacon's Hidden Story 28:51

3M ago28:51

28:51

Sir Francis Bacon, born in 1561, was the Lord Chancellor of England, a philosopher, author, statesman, and proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community who developed what we now call the scientific method. His story demonstrates that queerness isn't new but has existed throughout human history, even before we had the terminology to describe it. • Bacon s…

1
EP70: The Dance is What We're Fighting For 17:18

4M ago17:18

17:18

Joy is a powerful form of resistance during difficult times, especially when combined with community care and practical safety measures. Survival itself becomes an act of defiance when we remember that what we're fighting for is the right to experience joy and connection. • Crisis resources include the 988 Suicide Hotline and specialized warm lines…

1
EP69: The Education Underground; Navigating Dept. of Ed. Dismantling 16:23

4M ago16:23

16:23

We explore accessible educational alternatives in response to the executive order dismantling the Department of Education, focusing on resources families can use immediately to support learning outside traditional school settings. • Administration's March 2025 executive order is beginning the dismantling of the Department of Education • ACLU websit…

1
EP68: Solidarity Not Charity; Why Mutual Aid Is Essential for Our Collective Future 23:02

4M ago23:02

23:02

Mutual aid represents the foundation of human civilization, beginning with our ancestors' willingness to care for each other and continuing through indigenous practices that have existed for centuries before the concept was formally named. • Origins of mutual aid as a philosophical concept from Peter Kropotkin, countering social Darwinism with the …

1
EP67: When They Say They've Seen This Before, We Should Listen; Learning From Our Queer Elders 16:59

5M ago16:59

16:59

Our queer elders have crucial wisdom to share about navigating difficult times, having been through similar challenges in previous decades. • Find and get involved with your local LGBTQ center, even in small towns • Build physical community networks of people who can actually help if things get worse • Centers provide safe spaces, resources, event …

1
EP66: Love and Stone; Buried Queer esp Trans & Gender Non-Conforming Folx 32:46

5M ago32:46

32:46

Death comes for us all, but as queer people we must take extra steps to ensure our identities are respected after we pass. This episode explores end-of-life planning specifically for LGBTQIA+ individuals with practical guidance on protecting your identity in death. • Iconic LGBTQIA+ graves including Leonard Malkovich's Gay Vietnam Veterans Memorial…

1
EP65: Navigating Gender Marker Changes: Safety, Legal Challenges, & Everchanging Regulations 28:30

7M ago28:30

28:30

This episode empowers listeners with knowledge about name changes and gender markers, emphasizing the personal and societal significance behind documentation. We discuss the steps to change names legally, the emotional weight of this process, and the urgent need for community support while navigating these challenges. • Importance of changing gende…

1
EP64: Planting Seeds of Change: Activism, Queer History, and Challenging Societal Norms 32:47

7M ago32:47

32:47

In today's episode, we explore the intersection of privilege and activism, examining how systemic inequalities persist and the importance of discomfort in seeking equity. Our focus shifts from personal experiences to broader societal issues, emphasizing the necessity of engaging in activism even when it feels challenging. • Discussion on returning …

1
EP63: Navigating Queer Immigration, Finding Safe Harbors, & International Refugee Rights 21:43

8M ago21:43

21:43

Explore the journey of immigration through a queer lens, highlighting the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face when seeking refuge in a divided world. We'll compare Uruguay and Paraguay, showcasing Uruguay's progressive laws and firm stance against dictatorship as a beacon of hope. From the Equality Index to practical advice on legal protections an…

1
EP62: Punk Lace Codes 18:45

9M ago18:45

18:45

Picture this: our living room, popcorn scattered everywhere, laughter echoing, and a family movie night that turned into a rollercoaster of emotions. The movie adaptation of "Wicked" had us totally spellbound, and with Jeff Goldblum's brilliant portrayal of a character with a god complex, it was an experience worth every teardrop and chuckle. The d…

1
EP61: Bold Visibility and Smart Self-Defense Strategies 46:02

9M ago46:02

46:02

Discover how to express your pride boldly while staying safe in environments that might not always be welcoming. In this episode, we promise you’ll learn creative strategies like designing personalized battle vests and jackets that let you showcase your identity with pride, yet smartly—by placing symbols where you can keep an eye on reactions. Revi…

1
EP60: Lifelines and Liberation: Lessons from Queer Elders and What's Next 31:03

9M ago31:03

31:03

Join us as we honor the resilience of queer elders, reflecting on their strength through monumental LGBTQIA+ history, from Stonewall to the 1980s AIDS crisis. Explore curated mental health resources like Trans Lifeline and Thrive Lifeline, alongside self-care strategies to foster resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. Stay tuned for futu…

1
EP59: Post-Election Reflections: Finding Hope in Uncertain Times 34:27

10M ago34:27

34:27

In this episode, we navigate the challenges of maintaining relationships with loved ones holding opposing political views, exploring how fear-driven narratives hinder societal progress. We discuss resilience, the power of human connection, and the role of white allies in fostering unity within the queer community. Reflecting on personal struggles a…

1
EP58: Capturing the Magic of Euphoria and Queer Joy: Kit's First Drag Experience 25:21

10M ago25:21

25:21

Have you ever felt the rush of being truly seen and accepted for who you are? This episode dives into Kit's transformative Halloween night at a drag show, where the dazzling performances of three incredible Queens ignited his passion for capturing queer joy through photography. Join Kit as he reflects on the power of drag culture, the strength of c…

1
EP57: Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun: Haunted Pixels & Horror Classics 47:24

10M ago47:24

47:24

This episode dives into digital romance, a love for Halloween films, and navigating inclusion in horror. From marrying Stardew Valley’s Shane to celebrating horror icons, it's a journey through nostalgia, representation, and real-life Halloween escapades, embracing the eerie and the endearing all at once. Check out our linktree If anyone is seeking…

1
EP56: Blood and Gore, by and for, Girls, Gays, and Theys 26:16

10M ago26:16

26:16

Join us for a thrilling exploration of queer trans horror recommendations, discussing everything from films and books with positive representation to our mixed feelings about vending at the Scarecrow Festival. We also dive into standout performances by Dominique Jackson and Elliot Page, while celebrating horror classics like James Whale's "Frankens…

1
EP55: The Harms of Horror: The "Man in a Dress" Trope 39:48

11M ago39:48

39:48

!!TRIGGER WARNING!! This episode contains discussions of transphobic media and its impact on transgender people and society's view of queerness and gender nonconformance Summary: What if horror films are reinforcing harmful stereotypes that shape societal perceptions? In this Halloween-themed episode, we explore the damaging "man in a dress" trope …

1
EP54: "I'm a murderer, not a monster:" Chucky and Queer Theming 54:02

11M ago54:02

54:02

What if an 8-bit Rocky Horror video game unlocked a retro adventure but was restricted by platform exclusivity? We dive into the possibilities of such a game and lament the barriers that may keep fans from experiencing it. Our conversation shifts to the cancellation of the Chucky TV series after its third season, sparking a deeper discussion on the…

1
EP53: Kyler Broadus and the Legal Battles for Trans Equality 31:00

11M ago31:00

31:00

Curious about how one person can transform transgender rights? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Kyler Broadus, a pioneering lawyer and trans advocate whose activism has led to significant legal advancements. We'll dive into his personal story, from the influence of his father to discovering trans jazz musician Billy Tipton, and discus…

1
EP52: The Most Gorgeous, Special Thing on Earth: Venus Xtravaganza 30:04

11M ago30:04

30:04

Step into the vibrant world of 1980s New York City’s drag scene with Venus Xtravaganza, a trans femme queen from the House of Xtravaganza, featured in Paris is Burning. We celebrate Venus’s radiant spirit and lasting influence on both the drag community and mainstream culture. We also explore her enduring legacy through the new documentary I Am You…

1
EP51: Achillean, Achilles and Patroclus, & Queer Legacy 25:35

12M ago25:35

25:35

Can the love story of two ancient Greek warriors reshape our understanding of modern queer identities? This episode of "Life Through a Queer Lens" dares to challenge the historical narrative by uncovering the profound connection between Achilles and Patroclus. Travel with us back to Greek mythology and dissect how this legendary bond, often misrepr…

1
EP50: Sapphic Love & History 27:10

12M ago27:10

27:10

How can fictional characters queerbait, yet real people cannot? Join me as I unpack this intriguing distinction and share my personal journey of navigating the world of solo podcasting as an autistic individual. I'll open up about transitioning into a performance mindset, the joys of receiving my MatPat U2's figurine, and the difficult decision to …

1
EP49: Bridging Generations: Queer Stories and Parental Growth 31:55

12M ago31:55

31:55

Ever wondered how watching a beloved childhood movie, like "The Birdcage," can tie into profound life lessons? Join us as we reminisce about our earliest encounters with queerness and share heartfelt stories of family dynamics, including a touching tale of a gay uncle bridging the gap with a homophobic father. We'll reflect on how these personal mi…

1
EP48: Jammin' on Jewelry, Gender, and the Challenge to Lesbianism's Legacy 37:28

1y ago37:28

37:28

Ever wondered about the difference between "fun facts" and "interesting facts" when it comes to the sensitive history of non-binary individuals? Get ready for an informative episode where we kick off with personal stories of our love for making and wearing colorful jewelry and emphasize the importance of professional piercings over mall kiosks. Tun…

1
EP47: Intersectionality, From Theory to Practice 1:04:56

1y ago1:04:56

1:04:56

Can you imagine how your life would change if you truly understood the complex layers of discrimination that intertwine in our society? Join us as we unpack the concept of intersectionality, starting with a historic Vice Presidential pick that has everyone talking. We trace the journey of intersectionality from its academic origins, thanks to Profe…

1
EP46: From Marches to Milestones: The National LGBTQ Task Force’s Impact on Equality 49:14

1y ago49:14

49:14

Join us as we explore the untold stories and key moments in the LGBTQ rights movement through the work of the National LGBTQ Task Force. Hear about pioneers like Dr. Bruce Voeller and Frank Kameny, who helped remove homosexuality from the list of mental illnesses, and Virginia Apuzzo's powerful advocacy during the AIDS crisis. We'll cover decades o…

1
EP45: Women's Boxing & Gender, and Did We Forget DaVinci Was Gay? 53:07

1y ago53:07

53:07

Have you ever tried explaining the reality of climate change to a skeptical family member influenced by media outlets like Fox News? It's a tough battle, but we're here to help! Today, we're sharing personal stories and strategies on how to effectively communicate the undeniable impacts of climate change on our weather patterns and how to counter m…

1
EP44: Discussing the Film, I Saw the TV Glow 57:55

1y ago57:55

57:55

What if a film could make you confront your deepest fears and dreams about identity and self-acceptance? Join me, Kit, as I unravel my personal reflections on the poignant A24 film "I Saw the TV Glow," which premiered at Sundance Film Festival in January 2024. This episode takes you through an emotional journey where I share how my passion for quee…

1
EP43: Queer Coding and Lynn Conway #lgbtqiaplus Pioneers in Technology 33:08

1y ago33:08

33:08

What if you could transform adversity into groundbreaking achievements? Join us as we honor the remarkable journey of Lynn Conway, a trans activist and coding genius whose work in microelectronic chip design revolutionized modern computing. Despite being terminated from IBM in 1968 due to her gender transition, Lynn's perseverance and innovations h…

1
EP42: Why L Comes First in the LGBTQIA+ Acronym 41:15

1y ago41:15

41:15

Can you imagine a world where the language of identity continuously evolves to better represent us all? Join us as we trace the historical journey of the LGBTQIA acronym and its profound significance. From the early days when "homosexuals" and "homophiles" were the terms of the day, to the reclamation of "gay" as a badge of pride, we explore the nu…

1
EP41: Debating with Heart: Politics, Pride, and the Power of Stories 32:14

1y ago32:14

32:14

Can political debates be more than just a battlefield of insults? In this compelling episode, we scrutinize the current state of political discourse and highlight the dire need for empathy and understanding in debates. Reflecting on the missed opportunities for progressive organizing under Biden's administration, we make a bold statement about the …

1
EP40: Queer Behaviors in the Animal Kingdom 20:55

1y ago20:55

20:55

Think queerness is a human-only trait? Think again. In this eye-opening episode, we unravel the myths about LGBTQIA+ behaviors being exclusive to humans by showcasing the vibrant spectrum of queerness in the animal kingdom. From the emotional bond between Max and David, two male chimpanzees who found solace in each other after a traumatic ordeal, t…

1
EP39: Empowering Pride: Supporting Queer-Owned Businesses and Honoring Brenna Howard 26:46

1y ago26:46

26:46

Ever wondered how corporations leverage LGBTQIA+ culture for profit while failing to offer genuine support? Join us as we dissect the phenomenon of rainbow capitalism, or pinkwashing, which runs rampant particularly during Pride Month. We'll trace its evolution from a seemingly positive shift in the late 90s to its current state, where many compani…

1
EP38: Queer Artists Who Shaped Pop Music 43:56

1y ago43:56

43:56

Can you imagine a world without the groundbreaking influence of queer artists like Freddie Mercury or Little Richard? This episode takes you on a colorful journey through the vibrant history of queer pop music, celebrating the unsung heroes and iconic legends who dared to express their true selves. From the birth of pop charts in 1952 to the emerge…

1
EP37: Homosexuality and the DSM: From Marginalization to Recognition 36:54

1+ y ago36:54

36:54

Unlock the complex history of how queerness was pathologized in our latest episode, where we promise to guide you through the transformation from criminalization to medicalization of LGBTQ identities. Explore with us the pivotal role activists like Carl Ehrlich and Carl Westphal played in shaping this narrative. We'll reflect on the challenging jou…

1
EP36: From Doubts to Discovery, A Narrative of Kit's Autistic Self-Identification 25:11

1+ y ago25:11

25:11

Have you ever felt like a puzzle, piecing together your own truth, only to discover that the image wasn't quite what you expected? Join me, Kit, as I recount the intimate and transformative journey of self-diagnosing as autistic, a path paved with struggles, breakthroughs, and an unexpected neighbor's song that turned my world upside down. My odyss…

1
EP35: Sonic Activism: Macklemore's Anthems, Dystopian Reflections, and the Drive for Collective Justice 32:35

1+ y ago32:35

32:35

Embark on a sonic journey that will challenge your perceptions and ignite your passion for change. Macklemore's latest anthem, "Hins Hall," sets the stage for a profound exploration of music's impact on political discourse and social justice. In recalling the artist's previous work, we uncover the layers of activism embedded in his lyrics, from cha…

1
EP34: Deconstructing Fight Club: Masculinity, Queer Identity, and the Allure of Tyler Durden 1:29:01

1+ y ago1:29:01

1:29:01

Step back into the raw, unflinching world of "Fight Club" with us, as we strip back the layers of its powerful narrative to reveal the tangled threads of identity, mental health, and societal constructs. This episode isn't just a trip down memory lane; it's a deep-dive analysis that will challenge your perception of masculinity, consumerism, and th…

1
EP33: Video Gaming Through a Queer Lens 54:30

1+ y ago54:30

54:30

As we fire up the console of memory, our friend Dylan and us, we take you through a pixelated journey of gaming's past and present, painting the screen with tales as vivid as the adventures we've lived out in fantastical digital worlds. From the tactile joy of mashing buttons on a classic SNES to the awe-inspiring narratives of The Last of Us and t…

1
EP32: A Journey Through the Spectrum of Asexual and Aromantic Identities 1:03:00

1+ y ago1:03:00

1:03:00

Autocorrect might not get it yet, but we're here to ensure that 'aromantic' doesn't come out smelling like a rose scent. This episode is all about peeling back the curtain on asexual and aromantic identities, the vibrant 'A' in LGBTQIA+. So chuckle along with my little mishap, and settle in for a rich dialogue that affirms the diversity of human ex…

1
EP31: Open Conversations: Celebrating the Female Body & Breaking the Shame Cycle (BOOB, BOOBS, BOOBIES!) 55:30

1+ y ago55:30

55:30

Co-host Jenene has a converation with longtime queer lesbian friend, Terysa. She's originally from the Bronx, NY and currently living in Phoenix, AZ enjoying her retirement. The conversation explores the use of the word 'boob' and its various meanings and connotations. It delves into the history of the word and its association with breasts, as well…

1
EP29: Visibility in Transsexuality: The Interplay of Social VS Medical Transition 35:34

1+ y ago35:34

35:34

Have you ever pondered the colors of your identity and how they meld into the tapestry of society? Join us as we unravel the complexities of the transgender and trans non-binary experience, with a special focus on the intricacies of transitioning. Kit will take you through his own story as someone who chose a social transition, sharing insights int…

1
EP28: Hope in a Capitalist World: Seeking Authentic Change; True Liberation Will Not Happen With Corporations 54:11

1+ y ago54:11

54:11

Have you ever sipped a cocktail and thought about the journey of LGBTQ+ marketing in corporate America? We're peeling back the layers of history, from the mid-70s when queer folks first shimmered on the radar of alcohol brands, to the powerful 1994 IKEA commercial that broke molds by featuring a gay couple. Alongside the narrative of these pioneeri…

1
EP27: Demiboy, Demigirl: Deconstructing Demigenders 36:11

1+ y ago36:11

36:11

Embark on a linguistic journey with us and our guest Kit as we explore the rich tapestry of gender identities within the LGBTQ+ community. Prepare to have your understanding of labels like transgender, non-binary, and genderqueer deepened, and discover the personal stories behind terms such as demigender, demiboy, and demigirl. We tackle the comple…

1
EP26: Outfits and Outlooks: Gender Dysphoria, Euphoria, & Identity 54:24

1+ y ago54:24

54:24

When Kit and I sat down to record this latest episode, we knew we were treading into deeply personal territory. We open up about our own bouts with outfit-induced stress, a seemingly trivial matter that unveils the profound complexities of gender identity—a conversation that goes far beyond the clothes we wear. Our listeners will journey with us th…

1
EP25: Body Dysmorphia: The Hidden Struggle with Self-Perception and Paths to Healing 31:45

1+ y ago31:45

31:45

I never imagined that my own battle with body dysmorphic disorder would lead me to share such intimate details, but here we are, peeling back the layers on a condition that's far more than skin-deep. With my partner's unwavering support, we delve into the realities of BDD, contrasting it with narcissistic traits, and shed light on the importance of…

1
EP24: Queerbaiting: Hollywood Tactics and Cultural Impact 36:30

1+ y ago36:30

36:30

Unveil the shadowy dance of queerbaiting with us as we trace its origin from a political weapon to a Hollywood marketing ploy. Grasp the full picture as we dissect the complex interplay between the intent to engage LGBTQ+ audiences and the broader goal of retaining mass market appeal. This episode peels back the layers of this phenomenon, probing d…

1
EP23: Subtext and Stereotype: Queer Coding, Representation, & Villainy, Pt.2 24:22

1+ y ago24:22

24:22

Discover the colors of the rainbow hidden within the monochrome palette of media representation; our latest episode is a journey through the evolving portrayal of the LGBTQ community in film and television, with an acute focus on Disney's tentative dance with queer visibility. We unpack the subtleties of queer coding, tracing its roots from the nef…